[Satellite TODAY 09-14-10] China’s Sinosat-6 satellite has experienced a helium-pressurization system leak that may require operators to initiate extraordinary measures to bring the satellite into its operational orbit at the cost of a reduced operational life, Chinese officials confirmed Sept. 10 to media outlet Xinhua.
    The report said the leak would force operator China Satellite Communications Corp. to file an insurance claim estimated at about $60 million. The satellite was insured for $200 million for a total loss.
Officials also said Sinosat-6, which was launched Sept. 5 on a Chinese Long March 3B vehicle and designed to last for 15 years in geostationary orbit at the 125 degrees East orbital slot, may see its operating life shortened by five years.
    Sinosat-6 carries 24 C-band, eight Ku-band and one S-band transponder and is intended to replace Sinosat 3.